Fire restrictions remain over Easter - including campfires
Published on 06 April 2023
The CFA has confirmed that fire restrictions across the West Wimmera, Hindmarsh, Horsham and sections of Yarriambiack municipalities will remain in place over the Easter period, inclusive of campfires and barbecues.
Barbecues, campfires and fires for warmth cannot be lit unless the following conditions are met:
- The wind is not more than 10km/h (this can be observed if leaves and twigs are in constant motion.
- The fire is lit in a properly-constructed fireplace or in a trench at least 30 centimetres deep (properly-constructed fireplaces and trenches are made from stone, metal, concrete or any other non-flammable materials).
- The fire does not occupy an area in excess of one square metre and the size and dimensions of solid fuel used are the minimum necessary for the purpose.
- A person is in attendance at all times while the fire is lit and has the capacity and means to extinguish the fire if necessary.
- The fire is at least three metres away from tents and other camping equipment
- The fire is completely extinguished before the person leaves. When you leave your campsite, always put the fire out with water and not soil. The fire can smoulder under soil and re-ignite some time later. Once you put out a campfire with water, put your hand near the ashes and unburnt wood, taking care not to touch hot coals. If the ashes are cool to touch, it’s safe for you to leave the campfire
Safety tips include placing large rocks around the fireplace (ensuring they’re not river rocks as they will explode), never using flammable liquids- such as gas cylinders or fuel - on the fire and keeping a shovel and a 10-litre water bucket nearby while the fire is lit.
It’s also important to make sure the fire is at least three metres away from tents and other camping equipment and that all twigs, debris and other potentially flammable items within three metres of the fire are cleared.
Ensure there are no overhang branches within the fire distance.